The 4thannual CDMN Canada 3.0 digital media forum has gotten off to an exciting start today with opening remarks from Governor General David Johnston from Brazil, an on-site keynote by Industry Minister Christian Paradis, keynotes by Canadian tech leaders, and the announcement of the 10th member ‘node’ to join the Canadian Digital Media Network (CDMN). Ryerson University’s Digital Media Zone (DMZ) today officially joins regional centres of digital media entrepreneurship linked from coast-to-coast through the CDMN.

“This year’s CDMN Canada 3.0 forum is exciting because the program was derived from the experience of the previous three forums plus input from a cross-Canada tour undertaken over the past six months,” said Kevin Tuer, Managing Director of the CDMN. “This event brings together government, industry and academia in way that no other event in the country does, to advance our leadership position in digital media.”

Ryerson’s DMZ joins the CDMN at a time when digital media is gaining traction, Tuer said. Targeted to young entrepreneurs, DMZ provides the tools needed to make digital dreams a reality, offering an incubator environment where students and newcomers can gain entrepreneurial experience before jumping into the startup fray.

“The success of Canada’s digital media talent and entrepreneurship is dependent upon strong networks and support. The Ryerson Digital Media Zone is excited to be part of the Canadian Digital Media Network,” said Valerie Fox, Executive Director of the Digital Media Zone.

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the DMZ atmosphere reflects the energy of the city. Those who join The Zone are keen to take advantage of what the community has available including mentorships, business plan counseling, equipment, workshops, funding opportunities, exposure, and industry connections. Commercial enterprises benefit from this setup as well, turning to the technological pioneers for progressive digital solutions.

“There is nothing more rewarding than an innovative idea coming to fruition. To be a part of that in any way, whether providing resources, guidance, or the actual physical space is something to be proud of,” said Kevin Tuer, Managing Director of the CDMN. “Our collaborative relationship with DMZ will help to support Canada’s investment in its digital future by ensuring that startups, undergraduates and entrepreneurs have the foundation required for success.”

Tuer said the forum and all those who support it are helping take Canada another step forward to realizing the forum’s Moonshot goal set out in 2010, that “anyone can do anything online in Canada by 2017.”